Health-on-Line studies Infection Rates in NHS Hospitals

Official reports suggest that hospital acquired infection rates are steadily dropping, although Health-on-Line, the online Private Medical Insurance (PMI) company, notes continued media coverage of individuals who have contracted a hospital infection at an NHS facility.

Mike Dalby, Director of Health-on-Line, comments “Last year saw stories emerging of people contracting infections whilst in hospital. Government statistics now suggest these infection rates are dropping yet there remains a constant flow of stories depicting the plight of those still unfortunate enough to contract an infection. Whilst there has been a marked decrease in the numbers recorded, the elderly and infirm remain vulnerable to such contagion.”

“With a focus on hand washing and general hygiene standards it is gratifying to see the levels of reported infections drop, although are these statistics increasing the public’s confidence or is there still some way to go?”

“Tellingly, the number of enquiries we are receiving from people who wish to have health insurance in place continues to rise, and concerns centred on the quality of care available appear to fuel the public’s appetite further.”

Whilst private hospitals are not impervious to infections, the vast majority appear not to have suffered the high rates of infection cases reported in their NHS counterpart. This seems to be down to the priority given to hygiene and cleanliness. Many private centres do not employ external companies to clean the premises and ensure a rigorous routine is adhered too.

Dalby concludes, “It can be very unsettling faced with the prospect of having to spend time in a hospital, and worrying about infections can exacerbate these fears. Many individuals find real peace of mind from the reassurance that PMI will provide access to private facilities.”

“A policy from Health-on-Line will provide access to over 200 private hospitals throughout the UK. These hospitals are regularly assessed and any that don’t meet rigorous quality standards will be removed from the list.”